Dealing with Settlement Problems Using Piled Raft Foundations

Building settlements can occur for various reasons. The primary one is the weakening of the soil under the foundation. When this happens, the soil layer loses the load-bearing capacity of the superstructure. The structure sinks and compromises its structural integrity.

The solution to this problem might be constructing a reinforced concrete structure. A piled raft foundation provides stability and protects the structure from possible accidents. This blog will discuss how settlement can harm your building structure and how to resolve it with a piled raft foundation.

What Are Settlement Problems?

In your building, you might experience two types of settlement:

1.Uniform settlement

2. Differential settlement

The former causes the entire building to settle evenly. On the other hand, the latter shows signs of partial settlement. While both settlements are dangerous to your building, the latter might cause cracks. The main reasons for such settlements are a weak soil layer, poor building foundation design, or changes in the water level. If you have constructed your building on a weak layer of soil, eventually, it will settle due to the prolonged pressure of the superstructure.

Alternatively, your contractors might have designed a poor foundation structure without considering the soil type. It may also lead to building settlements. Suppose the area you have chosen to construct your building has a high water level. Water levels don't get cleared as soon as the rain stops. Then, chances are that prolonged waterlogging will soften the soil layer and reduce its load-bearing capacity, leading your building to settlement.

Consequences of Unaddressed Settlement

If you haven't properly managed the situation of building settlement, it can lead to further damage to the building. If your building is partially settled on one side, it might develop cracks due to higher tension in the building structure. You can also experience uneven flooring in your building. It compromises the building aesthetics and increases the risk of an accident.

What Is a Piled Raft Foundation?

Such structure is made of two components -

1.Piles

2. Raft

Concrete piles are constructed with roots deep into the ground to create a more substantial layer of soil. Several piles are built to carry the load of the superstructure. On top of the inserted piles, a concrete raft is constructed. The load of the raft is distributed across the number of piles inserted. So, how is it better than other building foundations? If the soil surface is weak and doesn't have enough load-bearing capacity, a piled raft foundation carries the building load deep into the ground- to a firmer soil layer. It protects the ground from uneven ground settlement and protects the structure from developing accidental cracks.

Such conditions in the building not only increase the risk of structural instability but also reduce the overall property value. Leaving your building in a condition of settlement might develop further issues for your building. Considering the latest building safety guidelines in the UK, such building conditions might be considered unsafe. Consequently, you might have to demolish the entire building. So, taking precautionary measures is the most intelligent thing to do against ground settlement.

How Piled Raft Foundations Help Solve Settlement Issues

The following are how your building settlement issues can be resolved.

Load Distribution: The structure distributes the building load to a wider area and is designed to carry the loads deep into a solid layer of soil.

Soil Reinforcement: The reinforced piles are inserted deep into the ground until a more substantial layer or solid rock layer is not found. It helps carry the building load to a stronger layer.

Improved Stability in High-Rise or Heavy Structures: The reinforced concrete structure helps to improve building stability as the foundation is strong.

When Should You Consider a Piled Raft Foundation?

If the ground survey suggests a weak soil condition where settlement issues might arise, a piled raft foundation can be a way out. Besides, you have seen that older buildings in your property have also been settled after some time; consider the piled raft option for yourself.

Conclusion

Piled Raft Foundation will not only distribute the loads of your building but also protect it from settlement. If you plan on protecting your house from further settlement issues, consider installing a piled raft foundation before further construction. If you are looking for a reliable piled raft foundation contractor, contact us today.